Your HVAC is easily the hardest-working system in your home during the summer... make sure it’s prepared to handle the work!
Summer in the South brings soaring temperatures and high humidity. So, ensuring your air conditioner is ready for the long, hot months ahead can help keep your home comfortable while avoiding costly repairs and unexpectedly high energy bills after all that extra work.
Whether you're a Houston homeowner preparing for the season or a seller looking to make a great impression on potential buyers, a little HVAC maintenance now can go a long way later.
You can discover more ways to help stay cool and lower your energy bills here.
Here are six simple ways to prepare your HVAC system for summer!
1. Replace Air Filters
One of the easiest and most effective maintenance things you can do for your HVAC system is to change your air filters regularly. Typically, it’s recommended to replace them every 3 months or so (depending on usage) but pets, local weather, and other household factors can affect this, so check them monthly and replace as needed. Dirty air filters greatly restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder, which can lead to increased energy usage, reduced efficiency, and unnecessary wear and tear on your equipment!
2. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up
It’s highly recommended to have your HVAC system checked by a professional tech yearly, ideally before the summer. During a tune-up, the tech will inspect all the components for problems, test the system’s performance, clean everything, and more. These regular “tune-ups” can help identify any potential issues before they become expensive repairs, while also extending the lifespan of your HVAC system!
3. Clean the Space Around the Unit
Your HVAC condenser unit (the big box outside) needs adequate airflow to operate efficiently and correctly. Over time, dead leaves, weeds, and other debris can accumulate around the box, and need to be cleared. Also, it may seem trendy to hide the unit with big plants or covers, but this will only obstruct the air flow and weaken its performance! Ideally, you want to keep at least two feet of clearance around all sides of the unit.
4. Seal Air Leaks in Your Home
Even the best HVAC system will struggle if your home is letting cool air escape. The most common places for air leaks are gaps around doors, windows, and ductwork. If you discover leaks, you’ll want to replace caulking or new weather strips. Sealing these areas can help your A/C system maintain comfort with consistent indoor temperatures.
5. Test the Thermostat
Before temperatures really start climbing, you should test your thermostat to ensure it's functioning properly. The thermostat is what tells the A/C system when to start and stop, so if it’s not working correctly, your system may end up working harder than it has to. If you're still using an older thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices can greatly improve energy efficiency and control over your home's comfort!
6. Inspect Air Vents & Registers
Check all the air vents and registers in your home are free from obstructions. Furniture, rugs, curtains—even dust build-up—can block airflow and cause your HVAC to work harder than it needs to. Make sure to unblock these places and clean them regularly for the best air quality.
A well-maintained HVAC unit isn't just important for comfort—it can also be a valuable selling point down the road! So, keeping your system in good condition can provide peace of mind for potential home buyers and show your home has been properly cared for. Not to mention, it will make a summer in the south a little more bearable…
Looking to buy a home with a good HVAC system? Need a reference for an HVAC tech to prep your home for selling? Our team knows just where to look—Contact us to find your summer dream home!
Alexis Feezel is a results-oriented Marketing Coordinator responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all promotional strategies and activities to effectively market clients & listings and maximize sales.